Definitions

withhold

[with-hohld, with-] / wɪθˈhoʊld, wɪð- /

VERB

keep back

Synonyms

STRONGEST

conceal deduct deny detain hide keep refuse resist retain suppress

STRONG

abstain bridle check constrain curb disallow hold inhibit kill refrain repress reserve restrain spike

WEAK

clam up dummy up hold back hold down hold out hold out on keep secret keep to oneself keep under one's hat keep under wraps sit on stop oneself

Antonyms

STRONGEST

allow disclose divulge expose free go along grant lay bare let go let out open release reveal show tell uncover

STRONG

aid assist help indulge liberate permit use

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The attorneys general claimed it was all part of a deliberate attempt to withhold information and leave fans guessing about how they could buy tickets.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Her department has the power to withhold federal money from schools that violate civil rights.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

X's second commitment is to withhold UK access to accounts reported for posting UK illegal terrorist content, if it determines they are operated by, or on behalf of, a terrorist organisation proscribed in the UK.

From BBC • May 15, 2026

If the money is paid to you, the administrator of the pension plan is obliged to withhold 20% for taxes.

From MarketWatch • May 6, 2026

In cases where NTIs do not have a reasonable ability to manipulate events, it is still best to withhold all information.

From "The First State of Being" by Erin Entrada Kelly

Vocabulary lists containing withhold

The Pearl

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

100 SAT words Beginning with W,X,Y, and Z

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare, Act III

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!